(CP-07) Memory and Types of Memory
Memory is an essential aspect of human cognition,
enabling individuals to remember past experiences, learn new information, and
make decisions based on previous knowledge. Memory is a complex and
multi-faceted process that involves several types and subtypes of memory. In
this article, we will explore the different types of memory and their subtypes,
including sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.
Memory formation and retrieval involve several processes,
including encoding, storage, and retrieval.
Encoding: During
encoding, information is perceived and transformed into a neural code that can
be stored in the brain.
Storage: Storage involves the consolidation of
the memory into long-term storage, where it can be retrieved later.
Retrieval: Retrieval involves accessing stored
information and bringing it back into consciousness.
These processes are complex and involve various brain
regions and neural pathways, including the hippocampus, amygdala, and
prefrontal cortex.
Types of Memory:
Memory can be broadly classified into three main types,
each with its unique characteristics and functions:
- Sensory
Memory
- Short-term
Memory
- Long-term
Memory
Sensory Memory:
Sensory memory is the initial stage of memory processing,
which receives and temporarily holds sensory information from the environment.
Sensory memory is further divided into two subtypes, which are:
- Iconic Memory:
Iconic memory is a subtype of sensory memory that is responsible for
processing and storing visual information. It is also known as visual
sensory memory and lasts for a very short time, ranging from 0.5 to 2
seconds.
- Echoic Memory:
Echoic memory is another subtype of sensory memory that processes and
stores auditory information. It is also known as auditory sensory memory
and can last up to four seconds.
Short-term Memory:
Short-term memory is the type of memory responsible for
holding and manipulating information for a brief period. Short-term memory has
a limited capacity, and the information stored in this type of memory is
quickly forgotten if not rehearsed or encoded into long-term memory. It can
hold information for up to 20-30 seconds, but the duration can be increased
with the use of mnemonic strategies.
Working memory is called
"working" because it actively manipulates and processes information
in order to complete everyday task, rather than simply storing it like
long-term memory. This active manipulation involves the use of
attention and cognitive control to select and organize information, as well as
to update and maintain it in an active state for short periods of time.
Short-term memory is essential for everyday functioning,
such as remembering phone numbers, following instructions, and performing
mental calculations.
Long-term Memory:
Long-term memory is the type of memory responsible for
storing information for an extended period. It is divided into two subtypes,
which are:
- Explicit
Memory: Explicit memory is also known as
declarative memory and is responsible for storing information that can be
consciously retrieved, such as facts, events, and personal experiences.
Explicit memory is further divided into two subtypes, which are:
·
Episodic Memory: Episodic memory is
responsible for storing information about specific events or episodes that have
been experienced by an individual. It enables individuals to recall past
experiences and events in vivid detail, such as the first day of school, a
family vacation, or a significant life event.
·
Semantic Memory: Semantic memory is
responsible for storing general knowledge and facts that are not related to
personal experiences, such as the meaning of words, concepts, and principles.
- Implicit
Memory: Implicit memory is responsible for
storing information that is not consciously accessible, such as skills,
habits, and conditioned responses. Implicit memory enables individuals to
perform tasks without conscious awareness, such as riding a bike, typing
on a keyboard, or playing a musical instrument.
Memory plays a critical role in our daily lives,
influencing our decision-making, problem-solving, and overall cognitive
functioning. It is also an important aspect of various fields, including
psychology, neuroscience, and education.
Research has shown that memory can be influenced by
several factors, such as age, genetics, environment, and emotions. For example,
as we age, our memory capacity and efficiency tend to decline, making it more
challenging to remember information accurately.
Furthermore, emotions can impact memory processing, with
emotionally charged events often being better remembered than neutral events.
This is due to the amygdala, a part of the brain responsible for processing
emotions, which can enhance memory consolidation and retrieval.
Memory can also be affected by various disorders, such as
amnesia, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. These disorders can impact
different types and subtypes of memory, leading to impairments in memory
processing and retrieval.
Conclusion:
Memory is a complex and dynamic process that is essential
for human cognition and functioning. Memory is multi-faceted process that
involves several types and subtypes of memory. Understanding the different
types of memory and their subtypes is essential for cognitive psychology
students to understand the mechanisms underlying memory processing and
retrieval. Sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory are the
three main types of memory, with each subtype serving a unique function in the
overall process of memory.
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